Dog obedience tip "Nothing In Life Is Free"

Add a comment to this page

Do you have problems with your dog getting on the couch...then refusing to get off? Does he ignore you when you call him? Does he nose or paw at your hand for you to pet or play with him, or get defensive and protective of his food or toys?

If so, an obedience technique called "Nothing In Life Is Free'"may help both you and your dog. "Nothing In Life Is Free" isn't a wonder trick that will fix a particular behavior issue. Instead, its objective is to help your dog behave better by getting him to accept you as the alpha dog and understand his place within the family structure.

How to apply 'Nothing in Life is Free'

First, your dog should master some of the basic commands and tricks--"Sit," "Down," and "Stay" are good starting points in any training regimen. Use positive reinforcement with lots of praise and treats when he does it right. "Shake," "Speak," and "Roll over" are amusing tricks to teach him once he has mastered the basic commands.

Once your dog has these basic commands down, you can start to use "Nothing In Life Is Free." It works like this: prior to giving your dog routine things (food, a treat, a walk, or a pat on the head) he must first complete one of the commands you've trained him. For example:

YOU:	YOUR DOG:
Get your dog's leash for a walk...	Must sit and stay until you've hooked the leash on his collar.
Feed your dog...	Must stay or lie down in one spot until you have filled the bowl.
Toss a ball for him to fetch...	Must sit and 'shake hands' before you throw the ball.
Give your dog a belly rub while reading the paper...	Must lie down and roll over on command before you do so.

Consistency is very important. [Continued]

« 1 2 »

newest topics:

Behavior

See ALL topics in this forum

68 topics, 296 posts

topics	replies	views	last post
Dog puts his front paws in the table One of my chows does this and we usually put his paws down and tell him NO. He still doesnt get it :( We're afraid he might reach foods he ... (continued)	1	31	Aug 22, 2008 4:01pm by cowgirlchick78 view
Puppy biting Let me start by saying I have owned in my lifetime 12 dogs and have never been this frustrated before. Of course, I understand that most of... (continued)	8	294	Aug 22, 2008 10:01am by esmeviolet99 view
My dog owns me I have an 11 month old Boston Terrier/Beagle which we have had for 8 months. He is neutered. He shows no food aggression as I can take hi... (continued)	2	69	Aug 21, 2008 8:57pm by esmeviolet99 view
is Jolie bored? Hi, this is maybe a silly question.. Is it normal for my dog to be very calm in the house (maybe a good thing?) But she is very active outs... (continued)	5	144	Aug 21, 2008 1:46am by Hinrik and J... view